Roadside Assistance: What Will Insurance Cover?

About Me

Until an incident six months ago, I mainly considered my car insurance to be something I would use if an accident occurred. After being stranded at work with a car that wouldn't start, I learned there was more to my plan than that. There is a whole section that has to do with roadside assistance.
The guy driving the tow truck asked if my insurance covered emergency calls and I said I didn't know. He asked me the name of the company and then called his boss. After a quick word with my provider, he found out that I was covered in full.
If you are not sure if your car insurance covers roadside assistance, let me tell you how to find out. After going over specific clauses in the contract, I'm betting you are covered for everything from a flat tire to a dead battery.

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After your car sputters to a halt, you might feel like your day couldn't possibly get any worse. Unfortunately, being stranded on the side of the road is inherently dangerous. In fact, with over 4,743 pedestrian fatalities in 2012 alone, making a few bad decisions could cost you. Here are three ways to stay safe while you wait for your tow truck driver to arrive:

1: Get Away from the Main Road

If you have driven your car for a while, you might be able to detect subtle changes with the engine or the handling. If you sense that you might be having real problems, try to get away from the middle of the road. Before your car completely stops, try to pull as far off of the shoulder as possible. If possible, try to get your car to a parking lot or open, grassy area before you turn off the engine.

In addition to allowing traffic to continue to move, parking in an easily accessible location might expedite the towing process. When your tow truck driver doesn't have to worry about dodging oncoming traffic or keeping heavy booms from hitting other cars, he or she might be able to get things done a little quicker.

2: Stay Inside Your Vehicle

After your car breaks down, you might be tempted to get out of your ride and wander around. Unfortunately, hanging out next to the side of that intersection or the freeway might be dangerous. Although you might assume that cars will slow down around your vehicle, many might whiz by, which could jeopardize your safety.

To make things easier for your tow truck driver and to stay safe, always stay inside of your vehicle. If the quickly approaching cars next to you make you nervous, climb over to the passenger's side to wait it out. Although it might seem silly, continue to wear your seatbelt. If your car is hit by another vehicle, your seatbelt might keep you from being ejected.

3: Alert Other Drivers

Last but not least, try to make your car as visible as possible. Always turn on your hazard lights so that other cars can tell that you have a problem. If it is night, turn on your interior dome light and your headlights. It might run down your battery, but it could keep your car from being hit, and help the tow truck driver to spot you more easily.

Keep these tips in mind, and you will be able to be safe despite your inconvenience.